Last Friday the 17th of March “The Worshipful Company of Lightmongers” held their annual members and guest’s dinner in the magnificent setting of Drapers Hall.

This key event on our calendar provides an opportunity for members and guests to enjoy a splendid black tie event at which we showcase our support for our military affiliations. This year was no exception and we were honoured to have all three services in attendance.

Our Naval affiliation is with the new aircraft carrier the “Queen Elizabeth” currently in Rosyth completing her readiness for service. The ship was represented by Commander Giles Palin RN and the Lightmongers award for the navy went to LCdr Craig Blackburn the award is sponsored by Past Master John Harding.

From the Army, we were proud to welcome 579 Field Squadron who as part of 101 City of London Engineers and represented by Colonel Simon Stockley OBE and Lt Colonel Richard Hawkins MBE RE. The Lightmongers award was presented to Cpl Forsyth of 17 Fd Squadron and Cpl Whiteside 22 HQ.

From the Airforce we were pleased to welcome our honorary Liveryman Air Chief Marshall Sir Stephen Hillier KCB CBE DFC accompanied by Lady Elaine Hillier. Sqn Ldr Andy Bucknell RAF officer commanding 606 Squadron who read the citation to Chief Tech David Coombe who was the recipient of The Lightmongers Award which is sponsored by Past Master Rodney Bennion OBE.

Thanks to our honorary Liveryman Sir Stephen Hillier, we were treated to an astonishing display by The Queens Colour Squadron.

Our Master Michael Simpson and our Clerk Phil Hyde are to be commended for an excellent night.

Thanks to Peter Mc Veigh of Status International who sponsored the event.